Textile blank with seamless knitted electrode system

ABSTRACT

A textile-based electrode system includes a first fabric layer having an inner and an outer surface. The inner surface includes a knitted electrode configured to be placed in contact with the skin of a user. A second fabric layer is disposed and configured to contact the outer surface of the first fabric layer. The second fabric layer includes a knitted conductive pathway configured to be electrically coupled to the knitted electrode. Furthermore, a third fabric layer is configured and disposed to contact the second fabric layer. A connector is disposed on the third fabric layer and is configured to be electrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway. The second fabric layer can be folded about a first fold axis and the third fabric layer can be folded about a second fold axis to place the second fabric layer in contact with the first fabric layer and the third fabric layer.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 61/810,313, entitled “Textile Blank with SeamlessKnitted Electrode System,” filed Apr. 10, 2013, the disclosure of whichis incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Embodiments described herein relate generally to wearable systems,devices and methods for measuring physiological parameters, and inparticular to textile-based electrode systems that include sensors formeasuring various physiological parameters.

Real time monitoring of physiological parameters over extended periodsof time poses significant challenges. Conventional instruments anddevices for sensing physiological parameters such as, for example,galvanic skin response (GSR), heart rate, breathing rate, etc. caninclude electrodes that are coupled to a user via leads. Such devicescan cause discomfort to the user and/or restrict the user's movements,which can make it relatively challenging to measure the physiologicalparameters of the user in real time.

Textile-based electrode systems that include electrodes integrated,printed, laminated, stitched, knitted, or sewn within the system orgarment can overcome the challenges of real-time physiologicalmonitoring. Such systems can be worn by the user such that theelectrodes included in the wearable textile are in contact with the skinof the user and can thereby measure one or more physiological parametersof the user.

State of the art wearable textile-based electrode systems suffer fromnumerous shortcomings. Some conventional textile-based electrode systemsinclude electrodes that are stitched or sewn into the system. Stitchedor sewn electrodes can rub against the user's skin causing chafing orrashes, which can cause discomfort to the user. Furthermore, stitched orsewn electrodes are prone to wear and tear, for example, because ofrepeated use or washing. This can reduce the life of the system.Moreover, stitched or sewn electrodes can increase the overall cost ofthe system.

Other conventional textile-based electrode systems are configured towork with only two electrodes. In such systems, the electrodes generallyneed to be located and aligned proximate to each other to allow anelectrical device (e.g., a sensor or a processing module) to be coupledto the electrodes such that the electrical device is located between theelectrodes.

Thus, there is a need for improved textile-based electrode systems thatminimally impact the comfort of the user, have long life, and providegreater signal quality and accuracy.

SUMMARY

Embodiments described herein relate generally to wearable systems,devices and methods for measuring physiological parameters, and inparticular to textile-based electrode systems that include sensors formeasuring various physiological parameters. In some embodiments, atextile-based electrode system includes a first fabric layer having aninner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface includes a knittedelectrode configured to be placed in contact with the skin of a user. Asecond fabric layer is disposed and configured to contact the outersurface of the first fabric layer. The second fabric layer includes aknitted conductive pathway configured to be electrically coupled to theknitted electrode. Furthermore, a third fabric layer is configured anddisposed to contact the second fabric layer. A connector is disposed onthe third fabric layer and is configured to be electrically coupled tothe knitted conductive pathway. In some embodiments, the second fabriclayer is folded about a first fold axis to place the second fabric layerin contact with the outer surface of the first fabric layer. In someembodiments, the third fabric layer is folded about a second fold axisto place the third fabric layer in contact with the second fabric layer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a textile-based electrode system,according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a textile-based electrode systemthat includes a first fabric layer, a second fabric layer, and a thirdfabric layer in a first configuration, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3 shows the textile-based electrode system of FIG. 2 in a secondconfiguration.

FIG. 4 shows a side cross-sectional view of the textile-based electrodesystem of FIG. 2 taken along the line A-A shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5A shows a front view of a textile-based electrode system,according to an embodiment. FIG. 5B shows a side view of the system witha first fabric portion of the system partially folded along a first foldline. FIG. 5C shows a side view of the system with the first fabricportion fully folded along the first fold line. FIG. 5D shows a frontview of the system shown in FIG. 5C. FIG. 5E shows a side view of thesystem with a second fabric portion of the system partially folded alonga second fold line. FIG. 5F shows a side view of the system with thesecond fabric portion fully folded along the second fold line. FIG. 5Gshows a front view of the system shown in FIG. 5F.

FIG. 6 shows a side cross-section view of the system of FIG. 5G takenalong the line B-B as shown in FIG. 5G.

FIG. 7 shows a front view of a textile-based electrode system thatincludes a textile blank, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 8 shows a front view of a textile-based electrode system thatincludes a textile blank, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 9 shows a front view of a textile-based electrode system thatincludes a textile blank, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a textile based electrode systemthat includes tubular portions, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 11A shows a perspective view of a textile-based electrode systemthat includes a two layer band with the hidden components of the systemshown in dashed lines, according to an embodiment. FIG. 11B shows aperspective view of the textile based electrode system of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12A shows a perspective view of a wearable garment that includes atextile based electrode system of FIG. 11A in a first configuration withthe hidden components of the system shown in dashed lines, according toan embodiment. FIG. 12B shows a perspective view of the wearable garmentof FIG. 12A in a second configuration.

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a textile-based electrode systemthat includes a plurality of connectors, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 14 shows a front view of a connector assembly and a processingmodule that can be coupled to the connector assembly, according to anembodiment.

FIG. 15 shows an electrical circuit that can be included in a connectorassembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 16A shows a front view of a textile-based electrode system thatincludes a cover layer for housing a connector assembly in a firstconfiguration, according to an embodiment. FIG. 16B shows thetextile-based electrode system of FIG. 16A in a second configuration.

FIG. 17 is a schematic flow diagram showing a method of forming atextile-based electrode system, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments described herein relate generally to wearable systems,devices and methods for measuring physiological parameters, and inparticular to textile-based electrode systems that include sensors formeasuring various physiological parameters. Some conventionaltextile-based electrode systems include electrodes that are stitched orsewn into the textile, which can cause discomfort to a user, forexample, by causing chafing or rashes on the skin of the user.Furthermore, stitched or sewn electrodes are prone to wear and tear, forexample, because of repeated use or washing, which can reduce the lifeof the system. Moreover, stitched or sewn electrodes can increase theoverall cost of the system.

Embodiments of a textile-based electrode system described herein provideseveral advantages over known textile-based electrode systems such as,for example: (1) providing knitted electrodes and knitted conductivepathways such that no stitching or sewing is required; (2) seamlesslyknitting the electrodes and conductive pathways within the fabric of thetextile-based electrode systems such that the systems are moreeconomical, efficient and scalable for mass production; (3) providing aplurality of electrodes configured to sense multiple physiologicalparameters; (4) providing higher comfort level to a user wearing thesystem by reducing chafing and pressure on skin that can be caused byseams or stitches; and (5) having longer life. Embodiments of thetextile based electrode system described herein can be included in awearable textile, for example, a waist band, a vest, a bra, a shirt, ajersey, an arm band, a thigh band, an ankle band, a belt, a head band, achest plate, any other wearable textile or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, a textile-based electrode system includes a firstfabric layer having an inner surface and an outer surface. The innersurface includes a knitted electrode configured to be placed in contactwith the skin of a user. A second fabric layer is disposed andconfigured to contact the outer surface of the first fabric layer. Thesecond fabric layer includes a knitted conductive pathway configured tobe electrically coupled to the knitted electrode. A third fabric layeris configured and disposed to contact the second fabric layer. Aconnector is disposed on the third fabric layer and is configured to beelectrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway. In someembodiments, the second fabric layer is folded about a first fold axisto place the second fabric layer in contact with the outer surface ofthe first fabric layer. In some embodiments, the third fabric layer isfolded about a second fold axis to place the third fabric layer incontact with the second fabric layer.

In some embodiments, a textile-based electrode system can include afirst fabric portion which includes a knitted conductive pathway. Asecond fabric portion is coupled to the first fabric portion andincludes a knitted electrode configured to be placed in contact with theskin of a user. The second fabric portion is folded over the firstfabric portion along a first fold line such that the knitted electrodeis configured to be electrically coupled to the knitted conductivepathway. A third fabric portion is coupled to the second fabric portionand includes a connector region. The third fabric portion is folded overthe first fabric portion along a second fold line such that (a) theconnector region is configured to be coupled to the knitted conductivepathway, and (b) the first fabric portion is disposed between the secondfabric portion and the third fabric portion. In some embodiments, thefirst fabric portion, the second fabric portion, and the third fabricportion are substantially tubular. In some embodiments, the first fabricportion, the second fabric portion, and the third fabric portion areformed seamlessly.

In some embodiments, a method for manufacturing a textile-basedelectrode system includes knitting a first tubular portion including aconductive pathway. A second tubular portion which includes an electrodeis knitted extending from the first tubular portion. A third tubularportion is knitted extending from the second tubular portion. The firsttubular portion is folded over the second tubular portion along a firstfold line and the conductive pathway is electrically coupled to theelectrode. The first tubular portion and the second tubular portion arethen folded over the third tubular portion along a second fold line suchthat the first tubular portion is disposed between the second tubularportion and the third tubular portion. A connector is disposed in thethird fabric portion. The conductive pathway is then coupled to theconnector. In some embodiments, the method further includes coupling thefirst tubular portion to the second tubular portion after the firstfold. In some embodiments, the method also includes coupling the thirdtubular portion to the second tubular portion and the first tubularportion adjacent the first fold line such that the first tubular portionand the second tubular portion remain folded over the third tubularportion during use.

As used herein, the term “about” and “approximately” generally mean plusor minus 10% of the value stated, for example about 250 μm would include225 μm to 275 μm, about 1,000 μm would include 900 μm to 1,100 μm.

As used herein, the terms “continuously,” “seamless” and “seamlessly”refer to the integration of layers, portions, or components included ina textile-based electrode system without any seams, interruptions,transitions, or indications of disparity resulting in a visuallyappealing appearance which improves a user comfort by reducing chafingand pressure on the skin that are usually caused by seams.

As used herein, the term “knit” or “knitted” refers to layers, portions,or components included in a textile-based electrode system that areformed by interlacing yarn or threads in a series of connected loopswith needles.

As used herein, the term “electrode” refers to an electrical conductorconfigured to contact a non-metallic surface including a skin of a user(e.g., a human or an animal) and measure electrical signalscorresponding to one or more physiological parameters of the user.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of a textile-based electrodesystem 100, according to an embodiment. The system 100 includes anelectrode 110, a conductive pathway 120, and a connector 140.Optionally, a connector assembly 160 can be coupled to the connector 140and configured to electrically couple the connector 140 to a processingmodule 170. The system 100 is configured to be associated with a user U,for example, worn by the user U such that the electrode 110 is incontact with the skin of the user.

In some embodiment, the system 100 can include a first fabric layer thathas an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface can includethe electrode 110 and can be configured to be placed in contact with theskin of the user U such that the electrode 110 also contacts the skin ofthe user U. The electrode 110 can be continuously and seamlessly knittedinto the first layer. The electrode 110 can be knitted from a conductiveyarn such as, for example, XSTATIC® silver metalized yarn, stainlesssteel thread, SCHOELLER® wool, polyaniline yarn, any other suitableconductive yarn or combination thereof. The electrode 110 can have anysuitable size or shape such as, for example, square, rectangular,circular, elliptical, oval, polygonal, or any other suitable shape.While shown as including a single electrode 110, in some embodiments,the system 100 can include a plurality of electrodes 110, for example,2, 3, 4, 5, or even more. In some embodiments, a padding member can bedisposed on the outer surface of the first fabric layer adjacent to theelectrodes. The padding member can be formed from any suitable materialsuch as, for example, rubbery foam, a sponge, memory foam, a 3-D knittedporous fabric (e.g., a 3-D knitted mesh or 3-D spacer knit), any othersuitable material or combination thereof. The padding member can, forexample, be configured to urge the electrode 110 towards the skin of theuser U, for example, to enable efficient contact of the electrode 110with the skin of the user U. In some embodiments, the padding member canbe also be configured to prevent rubbing of the electrode 110 against afabric layer adjacent to the electrode, for example, a second fabriclayer as described herein, and reduce noise. The electrode 110 can beconfigured to contact a skin of the user U and measure an electricalsignal corresponding to a physiological parameter of the user U. Thephysiological parameters that can be measured include but are notlimited to a galvanic skin response (GSR), an electrocardiogram (ECG), aheart rate, a breathing rate, a breathing pattern, a rib cage perimeter,a rib cage volume, an electromyelogram, and a body temperature.

In some embodiments, the system 100 can include a second fabric layerthat includes the conductive pathway 120. In such embodiments, theconductive pathway 120 can be continuously and seamlessly knitted intothe second fabric layer. The second fabric layer can be disposed andconfigured to contact the outer surface of the first fabric layer suchthat the conductive pathway 120 can be electrically coupled to theelectrode 110. The conductive pathway 120 can be knitted from aconductive yarn such as, for example, XSTATIC® silver metalized yarn,stainless steel thread, SCHOELLER® wool, polyaniline yarn, any othersuitable conductive yarn or combination thereof. While shown asincluding a conductive pathway 120, in some embodiments, the system 100can include a plurality of conductive pathways 120, for example, 2, 3,4, 5, or even more, corresponding to the number of electrodes 110included in the system 100. The conductive pathway 120 is configured toelectrically couple the electrode 110 to the connector 140 disposed on athird fabric layer, as described herein. In some embodiments, theconnector 140 can disposed on the second fabric layer and electricallycoupled to the conductive pathway 120. In some embodiments, theconductive pathway 120 can be coupled to the electrode 110 usingconductive yarn. In some embodiments, the conductive pathway 120 can becoupled to the electrode 110 with stitching, sewing, an adhesive (e.g.,with conductive glue or conductive epoxy), a hot wire press, highfrequency welding, ultrasonic welding, or any other suitable couplingmechanism.

In some embodiments, an insulating member can be disposed on theconductive pathway 120, for example, by over printing or laminating theconductive pathway 120 with any suitable insulating material such as,for example, a heat sealed adhesive, insulating membrane, polymers,plastics, mica, fabric, etc. In some embodiments, the insulating membercan be configured to electrically isolate the conductive pathway 120from the first fabric layer and/or the third fabric layer, for example,to reduce signal noise caused by rubbing of the conductive pathwayagainst the first and/or the third fabric layer and thereby, improvesignal quality. In some embodiments, the insulating member can beconfigured to provide a moisture impervious barrier, for example, toprevent electrical shorts.

In some embodiments, the system 100 can include a third fabric layerconfigured and disposed to contact the second fabric layer. Theconnector 140 can be disposed on the third fabric layer and configuredto be electrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway 120. Insome embodiments, the third fabric portion can include an opening. Theconnector 140 can be at least partially disposed in the opening suchthat the connector 140 can be coupled to the knitted conductive pathway120. The third fabric layer can be disposed and configured to contactthe second fabric layer such that the connector 140 can be electricallycoupled to the conductive pathway 120 using any suitable means, asdescribed herein, for example, mechanical coupling. In some embodiments,the third fabric layer can include one or more connector regions (notshown) configured to be electrically coupled to the knitted conductivepathway 120. The connector regions can be knitted from a conductive yarnsuch as, for example, XSTATIC® silver metalized yarn, stainless steelthread, SCHOELLER® wool, polyaniline yarn, any other suitable conductiveyarn or combination thereof. While shown as including a single connector140, in some embodiments, the system 100 can include a plurality ofconnectors 140, for example, 2, 3, 4, 5, or even more, for example,corresponding to the number of electrodes 110 included in the system100. The connector 140 can be configure to be electrically coupled tothe conductive pathway using mechanical coupling, an adhesive (e.g.,with a conductive adhesive or epoxy), a hot wire press, high frequencywelding, ultrasonic welding, sewing or stitching with conductive yarn,any other suitable coupling mechanism or combination thereof. Theconnector 140 can include a snap-fit connector (e.g., a male or femaleconnector, a pin socket connector, a DIN connector, a banana connector,etc.), a hook connector, a magnetic connector, any other suitableconnector or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least aportion of the connector 140, for example, a portion coupled to theconductive pathway 120 can be laminated or otherwise insulated with asuitable insulating material such as, for example, a heat sealedadhesive, polymers, plastics, mica, fabric, etc. The connector 140 canbe configured to be removably coupled to a connector assembly 160 suchthat the connector region 140 is in electrical communication with theconnector assembly 160.

The connector assembly 160 can include one or more connector receiversconfigured to mate with the connectors 140. The connector receivers canbe disposed and coupled to an electric circuit, for example, a printedelectric circuit that can be disposed on a substrate, for example, aflat substrate. The connector assembly 160 can be ergonomicallydesigned, have a small size, and light weight such that connectorassembly 160 can be disposed on the system 100 (e.g., on the thirdfabric layer) while in use by the user U. In some embodiments, the thirdfabric layer can include a cover layer (e.g., a pocket) configured tocover at least a portion of the connector assembly 160, such that theconnector assembly 160 is hidden from sight.

The connector assembly 160 can be in electrical communication with theprocessing module 170 and configured to convey the electrical signalsfrom the electrode 110 to the processing module 170. The processingmodule 170 can be configured to analyze the electrical signals receivedfrom the electrodes 110 and correlate the signals to one or morephysiological parameters of the user U. In some embodiments, theprocessing module 170 can include a transimpedance amplifier circuitconfigured to convert current to an amplified voltage. In someembodiments, the processing module 170 can include an analog to digitalconverter configured to digitize the voltage. For example, theprocessing module 170 can include a differential analog to digitalconverter which can reduce noise in the signal measurement. In someembodiments, the processing module 170 can include operationalamplifiers configured to amplify the measured signal. In someembodiments, the processing module 170 can include a filtering circuit,for example, a low pass filter, a high pass filter, a band pass filter,any other suitable filtering circuit, or combination thereof, configuredto substantially reduce signal noise.

In some embodiments, the processing module 170 can include a processor,for example, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, an ASIC chip, an ARMchip, or a programmable logic controller (PLC). The processor caninclude signal processing algorithms, for example, band pass filters,low pass filters, any other signal processing algorithms or combinationthereof. In some embodiments, the processing module 170 can include amemory configured to store at least one of an electrical signal data,algorithms, user log data, etc. In some embodiments, the memory can alsobe configured to store a reference signature, for example, a calibrationequation.

The first fabric layer, the second fabric layer, and the third fabriclayer can be knit from a non-conducting yarn such as, for example,nylon, cotton, silk, ramie, polyester, latex, spandex, any othersuitable non-conductive yarn or combination thereof. The knitting can beperformed using an SM8-TOP2 knitting machine by SANTONI™ or any othersuitable knitting machine. Any suitable knitting pattern can be used,for example, single, double, jersey, interlocked, mock rib, ribbed,two-way stretch fabric, any other suitable knitting pattern orcombination thereof. In some embodiments, the knitting pattern canintermesh on both sides of the fabric layer. In some embodiments, theknitted fabric layers can include a float yarn. In some embodiments, thefirst fabric layer can be continuously formed with the second fabriclayer (e.g., seamlessly knitted). In some embodiments, the first fabriclayer can also be continuously formed with the third fabric layer (e.g.,seamlessly knitted). In some embodiment, the second fabric layer can befolded about a first fold axis to place the second fabric layer incontact with the outer surface of the first fabric layer such that, forexample, the conductive pathway 120 can be electrically coupled to theelectrode 110. Furthermore, the third fabric layer can be folded about asecond fold axis to place the third fabric layer in contact with thesecond fabric layer such that, for example, the conductive pathway 120can be coupled to the connector 140. In such embodiments, the firstfabric layer can be coupled to the second fabric layer and the thirdfabric layer along at least one of the first fold axis and the secondfold axis using any suitable coupling means such as, for example,stitching, sewing, gluing, hot wire press, high frequency welding,ultrasonic welding, any other suitable coupling mechanism or combinationthereof. Any of the non-conductive yarn used for knitting the fabriclayers, and the conductive-yarn used for knitting the electrode 110, andthe conductive pathways 120 can be inelastic or elastic. For example,elastic conductive yarn and elastic non-conductive yarn can be used toform a textile-based electrode system included in a sports garment ortextile.

In some embodiments, the system 100 can include a first fabric portionthat includes the knitted conductive pathway 120. The system 100 caninclude a second fabric portion coupled to the first fabric portion(e.g., continuously formed or seamlessly coupled). The second fabricportion can include the knitted electrode 110 configured to be placed incontact with the user. The second fabric portion can be folded along afirst fold line such that the knitted electrode 110 is configured to beelectrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway 120, for example,using conductive yarn or any other coupling mechanism described herein.The system 100 can also include a third fabric portion including aconnector region and coupled to the second fabric portion (e.g.,continuously formed or seamlessly coupled). The third fabric portion canbe folded over the first fabric portion along a second fold line suchthat (a) the connector region is configured to be coupled to the knittedconductive pathway 120 by the connector 140 (e.g., by electricallyand/or mechanically coupling the connector 140 to the knitted conductivepathway 120), or any other coupling mechanism described herein, and (b)the first fabric portion is disposed between the second fabric portionand the third fabric portion. The first, second, and third fabricportions can be formed a non-conductive yarn, for example, anynon-conductive yarn described herein. In such embodiments, the secondfabric portion and third fabric portion can be configured toelectrically insulate the knitted conductive pathway 120 from the skinof the user U as well as the outside environment. In some embodiments,the knitted conductive pathway can also be insulated with a laminatingor insulating layer, as described herein. In some embodiments, thesystem 100 can include a stitch, for example, a first stitch, configuredto couple the second fabric portion to the first fabric portion along orotherwise proximate to the second fold line such that the second fabricportion remains proximate to the first fabric portion during use.Furthermore, the system 100 can include a second stitch configured tocouple the third fabric portion to the first fabric portion and thesecond fabric portion along the first fold line such that the thirdfabric portion remains proximate to the first fabric portion and thesecond fabric portion during use. In some embodiments, the first, secondand third fabric portions can be substantially tubular, such that thesystem 100 resembles a tube, or a band.

In some embodiments, the system 100 can include a one layer band. Theone layer band can include the electrode 110, the conductive pathway 120and the connector 140 disposed thereon and configured to be coupled tothe conductive pathway 120. In such embodiments, the conductive pathway120 can be electrically insulated by a lamination layer, as describedherein. In some embodiments, the electrode 110 and the conductivepathway can be knitted from conductive yarn. In some embodiments, theelectrode 110 and the conductive pathway 120 can be printed, forexample, using conductive ink.

In some embodiments, the system 100 can include a two layer band. Insuch embodiments, the system 100 can include an outer portion that caninclude the connector 140 disposed thereon and configured to be coupledto the conductive pathway 120, and a skin facing portion that includesthe electrode 110. The conductive pathway 120 can be disposed in theouter portion and/or the skin facing portion, and disposed andconfigured to be electrically coupled to the electrode 110 and theconnector 140, for example, disposed in an opening in the third fabricportion. In such embodiments, the conductive pathway 120 can beelectrically insulated by the outer portion and the skin facing portionor a lamination, as described herein. In some embodiments, the two layerband can be configured such that the skin facing portion is folded alonga first fold line and at least partially overlaps the outer portion. Insome embodiments, the two layer band can be configured such that theskin facing portion is folded about the first fold line and is adjacentto but does not overlap the outer portion. In any of these embodiments,the conductive pathway can be coupled to the electrode using conductiveyarn or conductive thread.

In some embodiments, the system 100 can be configured to have a tubularshape. In such embodiments, the system 100 can be configured to be usedby the user U as a waist band, a head band, an arm band, a thigh band, ahead band, a wrist band, or an ankle band. Furthermore, the system 100can be included in a wearable garment, for example, a shirt, a jersey, avest, a bra, or any other wearable garment. In some embodiments, thesystem 100 can have any other suitable shape or size and can be includedin any suitable wearable garment, for example, a glove, a sock, a shoe,etc.

Having described above various general principles, several embodimentsof these concepts are now described. These embodiments are onlyexamples, and many other configurations of a textile-based electrodesystem are contemplated.

In some embodiments, a textile-based electrode system can include aplurality of fabric layers. Referring now to FIGS. 2-4, a textile-basedelectrode system 1100 includes a first fabric layer 1102, a secondfabric layer 1104, and a third fabric layer 1106. The first fabric layer1102 includes a knitted electrode 1110, the second fabric layer 1104includes a knitted conductive pathway 1120, and the third fabric layer1106 includes a connector 1140. The textile-based electrode system 1100is configured to be associated with a user, for example, worn by a userand sense one more physiological parameters of the user.

The first fabric layer 1102 can be formed from a non-conductive materialsuch as, for example, nylon, cotton, silk, ramie, polyester, latex,spandex, any other suitable non-conductive yarn or combination thereof.Furthermore, the first fabric layer 1102 can be formed from astretchable material, for example, to conform to the skin of the userand enable sufficient contact between the knitted electrode 1110 and theskin of the user. The first fabric layer 1102 includes an inner surface1103 and an outer surface 1105 (FIG. 4). The inner surface 1103 includesthe knitted electrode 1110 and is configured to be placed in the contactwith the skin of the user such that the knitted electrode 1110 canmeasure an electrical signal corresponding to a physiological parameterof the user (e.g., a galvanic skin response (GSR), an electrocardiogram(ECG), a heart rate, a breathing rate, a breathing pattern, a rib cageperimeter, a rib cage volume, an electromyelogram, and a bodytemperature). The knitted electrode 1110 can be continuously andseamlessly knitted in the first fabric layer 1102. The knitted electrode1110 can be formed from a conductive yarn such as, for example, XSTATIC®silver metalized yarn, stainless steel thread, SCHOELLER® wool,polyaniline yarn, any other suitable conductive yarn or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, a padding member can be disposed on theouter surface 1105 of the first fabric layer 1102 adjacent to theknitted electrode 1110. In some embodiments, the padding member can bedisposed between the first fabric layer 1102 and the second fabric layer1104. In some embodiments, the padding member can be disposed betweenthe second fabric layer 1104 and the third fabric layer 1106. Thepadding member can be formed from any suitable material such as, forexample, rubbery foam, a sponge, memory foam, a 3-D knitted porousfabric (e.g., a 3-D knitted mesh or 3-D spacer knit), any other suitablematerial or combination thereof. In some embodiments, the padding memberis configured to urge the knitted electrodes 1110 toward the skin of theuser when in use to improve signal quality. While shown as having asquare shape, the knitted electrode 1110 can have any suitable size orshape such as, for example, square, rectangular, circular, elliptical,oval, polygonal, any other suitable shape or size. In some embodiments,the first fabric layer 1102 can include a plurality of knittedelectrodes 1110, for example, 2, 3, 4, 5 or even more.

The second fabric layer 1104 is configured to contact the outer surface1105 of the first fabric layer 1102. The second fabric layer 1104 can beformed from substantially the same material as the first fabric layer1102. The second fabric layer includes a knitted conductive pathway 1120that includes a first end 1122 and a second end 1124. The knittedconductive pathway 1120 is configured to be coupled to the knittedelectrode 1110, as described herein. The knitted conductive pathway 1120can be formed from substantially the same material as the knittedelectrode 1110. While shown as including a single knitted conductivepathway 1120, any number of knitted conductive pathways can be includedin the second fabric layer 1104, for example, 2, 3, 4, 5, or even highercorresponding to the number of knitted electrodes 1110 included in thefirst fabric layer 1102.

In some embodiments, an insulating member can be disposed on at least aportion of the knitted conductive pathway 1120. The insulating membercan be disposed one side or both sides of the knitted conductive pathway1120 by laminating or overprinting a suitable insulating material suchas, for example, a heat sealed adhesive, an insulating membrane,silicon, plastic, polymer, mica, etc over the knitted conductive pathway1120. The insulating material can, for example, reduce signal noise andthereby, improve signal quality. In some embodiments, the insulatingmember can also be configured to provide a moisture impervious barrier,for example, to prevent electrical shorts.

The third fabric layer 1106 is configured to contact the second fabriclayer. The third fabric layer 1106 can be formed from substantially thesame material as the first fabric layer 1102. The connector 1140 isdisposed on the third fabric layer 1106 and is configured to beelectrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway 1120. Theconnector 1140 can, for example, be disposed in an opening defined inthe third fabric portion 1106. The connector 1140 can be coupled to theknitted conductive pathway using any suitable means, for example,mechanical coupling, stitching or sewing with conductive yarn, withconductive adhesive or epoxy, hot wire press, high frequency welding,ultrasonic welding, any other suitable coupling mechanism or combinationthereof. While shown as being disposed on the third fabric layer 1106,in some embodiments, the connector 1140 can disposed on the secondfabric layer 1104 and electrically coupled to the knitted conductivepathway 1120. The connector can include a snap-fit connector (e.g., amale or female connector, a pin socket connector, a DIN connector, abanana connector), a hook connector, a magnetic connector, any othersuitable connector or a combination thereof. The connector can beconfigured to be removably coupled to a connector assembly (e.g., theconnector assembly 160 or any other connector assembly described herein)such that the knitted connector region (and thereby the electrode 1110)is in electrical communication with the connector assembly. At least aportion of the connector 1140, for example, the portion of the connector1140 coupled to the knitted conductive pathway 1120 can be insulatedwith an insulating material, as described herein. While shown asincluding a single connector 1140, the third fabric portion can includeany number of connectors 1140, for example, 2, 3, 4, 5, or even more(e.g., corresponding to the number of electrode 1110 included in thesystem 1100).

In some embodiments, the third fabric layer 1106 can include a knittedconnector region configured to be electrically coupled to at least oneof the knitted conductive pathway 1120 and the connector 1140. Theknitted connector region can be configured to be electrically coupled tothe knitted conductive pathway 1120, for example, using conductive yarn.The knitted connector region can be formed from substantially the samematerial as the knitted electrode 1110.

FIG. 2 shows the system 1110 in a first configuration in which the firstfabric layer 1102, the second fabric layer 1104, and the third fabriclayer 1106 are separated from each other. In a second configuration, thesecond fabric layer 1104 can be disposed on the outer surface 1105 ofthe first fabric layer 1102, and the third fabric layer 1106 can bedisposed on the second fabric layer 1104 as shown in FIG. 3. In thesecond configuration, the inner surface 1103 of the first fabric portionis configured to contact the skin of the user such that the electrode1110 contacts the skin of the user during use. As shown in theside-cross section view of FIG. 4, the knitted conductive pathway 1120is disposed between the first fabric layer 1102 and the third fabriclayer 1106 in the second configuration. In this manner, the first fabriclayer 1102 electrically insulates the second fabric layer 1104 from askin of the user and the third fabric layer 1106 electrically insulatesthe second fabric layer 1104 from the outside environment.

Furthermore, the first end 1122 of the knitted conductive pathway 1120can be disposed adjacent to but not contacting or otherwise overlappingthe knitted electrode 1110 in the second configuration, as shown in FIG.4. In such embodiments, the first end 1122 of the knitted conductivepathway 1120 can be electrically coupled to the knitted electrode 1110using conductive yarn or gluing (e.g., by conductive glue or conductiveepoxy). Moreover, the second end 1124 of the knitted conductive pathway1120 can be at least partially overlapping the connector 1140, such thatthe second end 1124 knitted conductive pathway 1120 can be electricallycoupled to the connector 1140 (e.g., by mechanical coupling, stitchingor sewing with conductive yarn, or conductive adhesive). In this manner,the knitted electrode 1110 can be in electrical communication with theconnector 1140 via the knitted conductive pathway 1120 and the connector1140 in the second configuration

In some embodiments, the first end 1122 and/or the second end 1124 ofthe knitted conductive pathway 1120 can be configured to at leastpartially overlap the knitted electrode 1110 in the secondconfiguration. In such embodiments, the first end 1122 of the knittedconductive pathway 1120 can be configured to be coupled to the knittedelectrode 1110 using any suitable means such as for example, stitchingor sewing with a conductive yarn, gluing (e.g., with a conductive glueor conductive epoxy), hot wire press, high frequency welding, ultrasonicwelding, or any other suitable coupling mechanism. In some embodiments,the third fabric layer 1106 can include a conductive connector region(not shown) configured to be electrically coupled to the second end 1124of the knitted conductive pathway 1120 as described herein.

While shown as being separate fabric layers, in some embodiments, thefirst fabric layer 1102 can be continuously formed (e.g., seamlesslycoupled) with the second fabric layer 1104. Furthermore, the secondfabric layer 1104 can be continuously formed (e.g., seamlessly coupled)with the third fabric layer 1106 such that the textile-based electrodesystem 1110 is a single piece textile blank. In such embodiments, thesecond fabric layer 1104 can be folded about a first fold axis to placethe second fabric layer 1104 in contact with the outer surface 1105 ofthe first fabric layer 1102. Moreover, the third fabric layer 1106 canbe folded about a second fold axis to place the third fabric layer 1106in contact with the second fabric layer 1104, thereby placing the system1110 in the second configuration. The first fabric layer 1102 can becoupled to the second fabric layer 1104 and the third fabric layer 1106along at least one of the first fold axis and the second fold axis(e.g., by stitching, sewing, gluing, hot wire press, high frequencywelding, ultrasonic welding, etc.) such that the second fabric layer1104 and the third fabric layer 1106 are maintained in the secondconfiguration (i.e., in a folded state).

In some embodiments, a first insulating member can be disposed betweenthe first fabric layer 1102 and the second fabric layer 1104.Furthermore, a second insulating member can be disposed between thesecond fabric layer 1104 and the third fabric layer 1106. The first andsecond insulating members can be configured to electrically andmechanically isolate the knitted conductive pathway 1120 from the firstfabric layer 1102 and the second fabric layer 1104. This can reducesignal noise and thereby, enhance overall signal quality. In someembodiments, the first and second insulating members can also beconfigured to provide a moisture impervious barrier, for example, toprevent electrical shorts.

In some embodiments, a textile-based electrode system can include aplurality of portions. Referring now to FIGS. 5A-5G and FIG. 6, atextile-based electrode system includes a first fabric portion 1202, asecond fabric portion 1204, a third fabric portion 1206. The firstfabric portion 1202 includes a knitted conductive pathway 1220. Thesecond fabric portion 1204 extends from the first fabric portion 1202and includes a knitted electrode 1210. The third fabric portion 1206extends from the second fabric portion 1204 and includes a connectorregion 1230 configured to be coupled to the knitted conductive pathway1220 by a connector 1240. The textile-based electrode system 1210 isconfigured to be associated with a user, for example, worn by a user andsense one more physiological parameters of the user.

The first fabric portion 1202 can be formed from a non-conductive yarn,for example, any of the non-conductive yarns described herein.Furthermore, the first fabric portion 1202 can be formed from astretchable material, for example, to conform to the skin of the userand enable sufficient contact between the knitted electrode 1210 and theskin of the user. The knitted conductive pathway 1220 can becontinuously formed (e.g., seamlessly formed) in the first fabricportion 1202. The knitted conductive pathway 1220 can be formed from aconductive yarn, for example, any of the conductive yarns describedherein.

The second fabric portion 1204 can be formed from substantially the samematerial as the first fabric portion 1202. The knitted electrode 1210 isconfigured to be placed in contact with the skin of the user, asdescribed herein, such that the knitted electrode 1210 can measure anelectrical signal corresponding to a physiological parameter of theuser, for example, any of the physiological parameters described herein.The knitted electrode 1210 can be continuously and seamlessly knitted inthe second fabric portion 1204. The knitted electrode 1210 can be formedfrom substantially the same material as the knitted conductive pathway1220. While shown as having a square shape, the knitted electrode 1210can have any suitable size or shape such as, for example, square,rectangular, circular, elliptical, oval, polygonal, any other suitableshape or size.

The third fabric portion 1206 can be formed from substantially the samematerial as the first fabric portion 1202. The connector region 1230 caninclude an opening defined in the third fabric portion 1206, forexample, during knitting of the third fabric portion 1206 and/orotherwise formed in the third fabric 1206 after the knitting process.The connector 1240 can be disposed in the opening 1230 defined in thethird fabric portion 1206 and can be configured to be electricallycoupled to the knitted conductive pathway 1220 by any suitable methoddescribed herein (e.g., mechanical coupling). The connector 1240 can besubstantially similar to the connector 140 or any other connectordescribed herein. The connector 1240 can be configured to be removablycoupled to a connector assembly (e.g., the connector assembly 160 or anyother connector assembly described herein) such that the knittedconductive pathway 1220 (and thereby the electrode 1210) is inelectrical communication with the connector assembly. In someembodiments, the connector 1240 can be disposed on the second fabricportion 1204 and electrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway1220.

In some embodiments, the connector region 1230 can include a conductiveportion, for example, a knitted conductive portion configured to beelectrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway 1220. Theconductive portion can be configured to be electrically coupled to theknitted conductive pathway 1220, for example, using conductive yarn. Theconductive portion can be formed from substantially the same material asthe knitted electrode 1110.

While shown as being substantially flat, in some embodiments, the firstfabric portion 1202, the second fabric portion 1204, and the thirdfabric portion 1206 can be substantially tubular. Furthermore, the firstfabric portion 1202, the second fabric portion 1204, and the thirdfabric portion 1206 can be formed seamlessly (e.g., knittedcontinuously).

The system 1200 can be moved from a first configuration in which theknitted electrode 1210 and the knitted conductive pathways 1220 areelectrically isolated, to a second configuration in which the knittedconductive pathway 1220 is configured to be electrically coupled to theknitted electrode 1210, and finally to a third configuration in whichthe knitted conductive pathway 1220 is configured to be electricallycoupled to the connector 1240. FIG. 5A shows the system 1200 in thefirst configuration. In the first configuration, neither one of thefirst fabric portion 1202, the second fabric portion 1204, or the thirdfabric portion 1206 is folded. The first fabric portion 1202 can befolded along a first fold line 1203 in a direction shown by the arrow Cto move the system 1200 from the first configuration to the secondconfiguration. As shown in FIG. 5B, the first fabric portion 1202 ismoved towards the second fabric portion 1204 until the first fabricportion 1202 is disposed adjacent to the second fabric portion 1204(FIGS. 5C and 5D). Furthermore, a first end 1222 of the knittedconductive pathway 1220 is disposed adjacent to but not overlapping theknitted electrode 1210. In such embodiments, the first end 1222 of theknitted conductive pathway 1220 can be coupled to the knitted electrode1210 by stitching or sewing with conductive yarn.

The second fabric portion 1204 can then be folded about a second foldline 1205 in a direction shown by the arrow D (FIGS. 5D and 5E) to movethe system 1200 from the second configuration to the thirdconfiguration. As shown in FIGS. 5D and 5E, the first fabric portion1202 and the second fabric portion 1204 are moved towards the thirdfabric portion 1206, until the first fabric portion is disposed adjacentto the third fabric portion 1206 and the system 1200 is in the thirdconfiguration (FIGS. 5F and 5G). Furthermore, a second end 1224 of theknitted conductive pathway 1220 can overlap the connector region 1230.The connector 1240 can be disposed in the connector region 1230 andelectrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway 1220, forexample, using mechanical coupling, conductive adhesive or any othercoupling mechanism described herein.

While shown as being adjacent and not overlapping in some embodiments,the first end 1222 of the knitted conductive pathway 1220 can beconfigured to at least partially overlap the knitted electrode 1210after folding the first fabric portion 1202 about the first fold line1203. In such embodiments, first end 1222 of the knitted conductivepathway 1220 can be coupled to the knitted electrode 1210 by stitchingor sewing with conductive yarn, gluing with conductive adhesive orepoxy, hot wire press, high frequency welding, ultrasonic welding, anyother suitable coupling mechanism or combination thereof.

As shown in FIG. 6, in the second configuration, the knitted conductivepathway 1220 can be disposed between the second fabric portion 1204, andthird fabric portion 1206. In this way, the knitted conductive pathway1220 can be electrically insulated from the skin of the user by thesecond fabric portion 1204, and electrically insulated from the outsideenvironment by the third fabric portion 1206. In some embodiments, thesystem 1200 can include a first stitch configured to couple the secondfabric portion 1204 to the first fabric portion 1202 such that thesecond fabric portion 1204 remains proximate to the first fabric portion1202 during use. Furthermore, the system 1200 can also include a secondstitch configured to couple the third fabric portion 1206 to the firstfabric portion 1202 and the second fabric portion 1204 such that thethird fabric portion 1206 remains proximate to the first fabric portion1202 and the second fabric portion 1204 during use. Said another way,the first stitch and the second stitch can ensure that the first fabriclayer 1202 remains folded about the first fold line 1203, and the secondfabric layer 1204 remains folded about the second fold line 1205 suchthat the system 1200 is maintained in the second configuration duringuse.

In some embodiments, a padding member (not shown) can be disposedbetween the first fabric portion 1202 and the second fabric portion 1204adjacent to the knitted electrode 1210. In some embodiments, the paddingmember can be disposed on the first fabric portion 1202 while the system1200 is in the first configuration. In some embodiments, the paddingmember can be disposed on the first fabric portion 1202 while the systemis 1200 being moved from the first configuration into the secondconfiguration. In some embodiments, the padding member can be disposedbetween the first fabric portion 1202 and the second fabric portion 1204when the system is in the second configuration. In some embodiments, thepadding member can be disposed between the second fabric portion 1204and the third fabric portion 1206 adjacent to the first end 1222 of theknitted conductive pathway 1220, such that the padding member isadjacent to the knitted electrode 1210. In such embodiments, the paddingmember can be disposed between the second fabric portion 1204 and thethird fabric portion 1206 when the system 1200 is in the secondconfiguration, or while the system 1200 is being moved from the secondconfiguration to the third configuration. The padding member can beformed from any suitable material such as, for example, rubbery foam, asponge, memory foam, a 3-D knitted porous fabric (e.g., a 3-D knittedmesh or 3-D spacer knit), any other suitable material or combinationthereof. In some embodiments, the padding member is configured to urgethe knitted electrode 1210 toward the skin of the user when in use toimprove signal quality.

In some embodiments, an insulating member can be disposed between thefirst fabric portion 1202 and the second fabric portion 1204, and/orbetween the second fabric portion 1204 and the third portion 1206. Forexample, in some embodiments, a first insulating member can be disposedbetween the first fabric portion 1202 and the second fabric portion1204. The first insulating member can be configured to electricallyand/or mechanically isolate the knitted conductive pathway 1220 from thesecond fabric layer 1204. The first insulating member can be disposedwhile the system 1200 is in the first configuration. In someembodiments, the first insulating member can be disposed while thesystem 1200 is being moved from the first configuration to the secondconfiguration. Moreover, a second insulating member can be disposedbetween the first fabric portion 1202 and the third fabric portion 1206.The second insulating member can be configured to electrically and/ormechanically isolate the knitted conductive pathway 1220 from the thirdfabric layer 1206. The second insulating member can be disposed whilethe system 1200 is in the first configuration. In some embodiments, thesecond insulating member can be disposed while the system 1200 is beingmoved from the first configuration to the second configuration, whilethe system 1200 is in the second configuration, while the system 1200 isbeing moved from the second configuration into the third configuration.The electrical and/or mechanical insulation provided by the first andsecond insulating members can reduce signal noise and thereby, enhanceoverall signal quality. In some embodiments, the first and secondinsulating members can also be configured to provide a moistureimpervious barrier, for example, to prevent electrical shorts.

In some embodiments, a textile-based electrode system can include aplurality of electrodes. Referring now to FIG. 7, a textile-basedelectrode system 1300 can include a textile blank that includes a skinfacing portion 1302 and an outer portion 1304. The skin facing portion1302 includes a first electrode 1310 a, a second electrode 1310 b, athird electrode 1310 c (collectively referred to as “the electrodes1310”) and at least a portion of a first conductive pathway 1320 a, asecond conductive pathways 1320 b and a third conductive pathway 1320 c(collectively referred to as “the conductive pathways 1320”). The outerportion 1304 extends from the skin facing portion 1302 and includes afirst connector region 1330 a, a second connector region 1330 b, a thirdconnector region 1330 c, a fourth connector region 1330 d, a fifthconnector region 1330 e (collectively referred to as “the connectorregions 1330”), and at least a portion of the conductive pathways 1320which extend from the skin facing portion 1302 into the outer portion1304. The system 1300 can be included in any textile or garment, forexample, a band, a shirt, a jersey, a vest, a bra, or any other wearabletextile, such that, the system 1300 can measure one or morephysiological parameters of a user.

The skin facing portion 1302 and the outer portion 1304 can be formedfrom a non-conductive material, for example, any of the materialsdescribed with respect to the first fabric layer included in thetextile-based electrode system 100. Furthermore, the skin facing portion1302 can be continuously formed with the outer portion 1304 (e.g.,seamlessly coupled). The skin facing portion 1302 is configured tofolded about a fold line 1303 such that the skin facing portion 1302overlaps the outer portion 1304 and is configured to contact the skin ofthe user during use. The system 1300 can include one or more stitchesconfigured to couple the skin facing portion 1302 to the outer portion1304, such that the skin facing portion 1302 remains proximate to theouter portion 1304 during use. The electrodes 1310 can be continuouslyand seamlessly knitted with the skin facing portion 1302. The electrodes1310 are substantially aligned with each other such that a top edge ofeach of the electrodes 1310 is disposed at a distance d from the foldline 1303. The electrodes 1310 can be formed from a conductive material,for example, knitted using conductive yarn, or printed with conductiveink. The electrodes 1310 can be substantially similar to the electrode110, 1110, 1210, or any other electrode described herein and istherefore, not described in further detail herein. The electrodes 1310are configured to contact the skin of a user and sense an electricalsignal corresponding to one or more physiological parameters of theuser. In some embodiments, any two of the electrodes 1310 (e.g., thefirst electrode 1310 a and the second electrode 1310 b) can be used tomeasuring the signals which are used to determine the physiologicalparameter of the user. In such embodiments, the remaining electrode 1310(e.g., the third electrode 1310 c) can be used to increase redundancyand robustness of the measurement, reduce noise, and/or amplify signals.While shown as including three electrodes 1310, any number of electrodescan be included in the skin facing portion 1302, for example, 2, 4, 5, 6or even more.

The conductive pathways 1320 can be substantially similar to theconductive pathway 120, 1120, 1220, or any other conductive pathwaydescribed herein. The conductive pathways 1320 are seamlessly andcontinuously coupled to the electrodes 1310 using conductive yarn alonga top edge of the electrodes 1310 proximal to the fold line 1303. Theconductive pathways 1320 extend from the skin facing portion 1302 intothe outer portion 1304 and are seamlessly and continuously knitted tothe connector regions 1330. In this manner, the electrodes 1310 can bein electrical communication with the connector region 1330 via theconductive pathways 1320. The conductive pathways 1320 can beelectrically insulated from the skin of the user and the outsideenvironment by laminating or otherwise coating with an insulatingmaterial such as, for example, heat sealed adhesive, insulatingmembrane, polymers, plastic, mica, etc.

The connector regions 1330 are seamlessly and continuously knitted intothe outer portion 1304 and coupled to the conductive pathways 1320 asdescribed herein. While not shown, a connector, as described withrespect to the system 100, 1100, 1200 or any other system describedherein, can be coupled to each connector region 1330. The connectors canbe configured to couple the connector regions 1330 to a connectorassembly, for example, the connector assembly 160, or any otherconnector assembly described herein. As shown herein, the fourthconnector regions 1330 d and the fifth connector regions 1330 e are notcoupled to any conductive pathway 1320 and are thereby electricallyisolated from the electrodes 1310. In some embodiments, the fourthconnector regions 1330 d and the fifth connector region 1330 e can beconfigured to be coupled to a respiration sensor, for example, arespiration sensor included in the system 1300 or part of a separatesystem. Furthermore, connectors coupled to the connector regions 1330 dand 1330 e can ensure proper alignment of the connector assembly to theconnector regions 1330.

In some embodiment, the connector regions 1330 can include openingsconfigured to receive the connector. In such embodiments, the connectorscan be electrically coupled to the conductive pathways 1320, forexample, using mechanical coupling or a conductive adhesive.

In some embodiments, a textile-based electrode system can include aplurality of electrodes that include conductive pathways electricallycoupled to a side edge of the electrode. Referring now to FIG. 8, atextile-based electrode system 1400 includes a textile blank thatincludes a skin facing portion 1402 and an outer portion 1404. The skinfacing portion 1402 includes a first electrode 1410 a, a secondelectrode 1410 b, a third electrode 1410 c (collectively referred to as“the electrodes 1410”) and at least a portion of a first conductivepathway 1420 a, a second conductive pathway 1420 b, and a thirdconductive pathway 1420 c (collectively referred to as “the conductivepathways 1420”). The outer portion 1404 extends from the skin facingportion 1402, and includes a first connector region 1430 a, a secondconnector region 1430 b, a third connector region 1430 c, a fourthconnector region 1430 d, a fifth connector region 1430 e (collectivelyreferred to as “the connector regions 1430”), and at least a portion ofthe conductive pathways 1420 which extend from the skin facing portion1402 into the outer portion 1404. The system 1400 can be included in anytextile or garment, for example, a band, a shirt, a jersey, a vest, abra, or any other wearable textile, such that, the system 1400 can beused to measure one or more physiological parameters of a user.

The skin facing portion 1402 and the outer portion 1404 can be formedfrom a non-conductive material, for example, any of the materialsdescribed with respect to the first fabric layer included in thetextile-based electrode system 100. Furthermore, the skin facing portion1402 can be continuously formed with the outer portion 1404 (e.g.,seamlessly coupled). The skin facing portion 1402 is configured to befolded about a fold line 1403 such that the skin facing portion 1402overlaps the outer portion 1404 and is configured to contact the skin ofthe user during use. The system 1400 can include one or more stitchesconfigured to couple the skin facing portion 1402 to the outer portion1404, such that skin facing portion 1402 remains proximate to the outerportion 1404 during use. The electrodes 1410 can be continuously andseamlessly knitted into the skin facing portion 1402. The electrodes1410 are substantially aligned with each other such that a top edge ofeach of the electrodes 1410 is disposed at a distance d from the foldline 1403. The electrodes 1410 can be formed from a conductive material,for example, conductive yarn. The electrodes 1410 can be substantiallysimilar to the electrode 110, 1110, 1210, 1310, or any other electrodedescribed herein and are therefore, not described in further detailherein. The electrodes 1410 are configured to contact the skin of a userand sense an electrical signal corresponding to one or morephysiological parameters of the user. While shown as including threeelectrodes 1410, any number of electrodes can be included in the skinfacing portion 1402, for example, 2, 4, 5, 6 or even more, as describedwith respect to the electrodes 1310 included in the system 1300.

The conductive pathways 1420 can be substantially similar to theconductive pathway 120, 1120, 1220, 1320, or any other conductivepathway define herein. The conductive pathways 1420 are seamlessly andcontinuously knitted to the electrodes 1410 using conductive yarn alonga side edge of the electrodes 1410 proximal to the other electrodes1410. The conductive pathways 1420 extend from the skin facing portion1402 into the outer portion 1404 and are seamlessly and continuouslyknitted to the connector regions 1430. In this manner, the electrodes1410 can be in electrical communication with the connector region 1430via the conductive pathways 1420. The conductive pathways 1420 can beelectrically insulated from the skin of the user and the outsideenvironment by laminating or otherwise coating with an insulatingmaterial such as, for example, heat sealed adhesive, insulatingmembrane, polymers, plastic, mica, etc.

The connector regions 1430 are seamlessly and continuously knitted intothe outer portion 1404 and coupled to the conductive pathways 1420 asdescribed herein. While not shown, connectors, as described with respectto the system 100, 1100, 1200, 1300, or any other system describedherein, can be coupled to each connector region 1430. The connectors canbe configured to couple the connector regions 1430 to a connectorassembly, for example, the connector assembly 160, or any otherconnector assembly described herein. The connector regions 1430 can besubstantially similar to the connector regions 130, 1130, 1230, 1330, orany other connector regions described herein, and are therefore notdescribed in further detail herein.

In some embodiment, the connector regions 1430 can include openingsconfigured to receive the connector. In such embodiments, the connectorscan be electrically coupled to the conductive pathways 1420, forexample, using mechanical coupling or a conductive adhesive.

In some embodiments, a textile-based electrode system can include aplurality of electrodes that are not aligned with each other. Referringnow to FIG. 9, a textile-based electrode system 1500 can include atextile blank that includes a skin facing portion 1502 and an outerportion 1504. The skin facing portion 1502 includes a first electrode1510 a, a second electrode 1510 b, a third electrode 1510 c(collectively referred to as “the electrodes 1510”), and at least aportion of a first conductive pathway 1520 a, a second conductivepathway 1520 b, and a third conductive pathway 1520 c (collectivelyreferred to as “the conductive pathways 1520”). The outer portion 1504extends from the skin facing portion 1502 and includes a first connectorregion 1530 a, a second connector region 1530 b, a third connectorregion 1530 c, a fourth connector region 1530 d, a fifth connectorregion 1530 e (collectively referred to as “the connector regions1530”), and at least a portion of the conductive pathways 1520 whichextend from the skin facing portion 1502 into the outer portion 1504.The system 1500 can be included in any textile or garment, for example,a band, a shirt, a jersey, a vest, a bra, or any other wearable textile,such that, the system 1500 can be used to measure one or morephysiological parameters of a user.

The skin facing portion 1502 and the outer portion 1504 can be formedfrom a non-conductive material, for example, any of the materialsdescribed with respect to the first fabric layer included in thetextile-based electrode system 100. Furthermore, the skin facing portion1502 can be continuously formed with the outer portion 1504 (e.g.,seamlessly coupled). The skin facing portion 1502 is configured to befolded about a fold line 1503 such that the skin facing portion 1502overlaps the outer portion 1504 and is configured to contact the skin ofthe user during use. The system 1500 can include one or more stitchesconfigured to couple the skin facing portion 1502 to the outer portion1504, such that the skin facing portion 1502 remains proximate to theouter portion 1504 during use. The electrodes 1510 can be continuouslyand seamlessly knitted into the skin facing portion 1302. A first topedge of the first electrode 1510 a is disposed at a first distance d₁from the fold line 1503, a second top edge of the second electrode 1510b is disposed at a second distance d₂ from the fold line 1503, and athird top edge of the third electrode 1510 c is disposed at a thirddistance d₃ from the fold line 1503, the first distance d₁, the seconddistance d₂, and the third distance d₃ different from each other. Inthis manner, the electrodes 1510 are located in the first portion 1502such that they are misaligned. Furthermore, the electrodes 1510 can beconfigured to contact different portions of the skin of the user forexample, the chest, back, near the bottom of the heart, the midriff,etc. In this way, the electrodes 1510 can measure key physiologicalsignals from different portions of the skin of the user. The electrodes1510 can be formed from a conductive material, for example, conductiveyarn. The electrodes 1510 can be substantially similar to the electrode110, 1110, 1210, 1310, or any other electrode described herein and aretherefore, not described in further detail herein.

The conductive pathways 1520 can be substantially similar to theconductive pathway 120, 1120, 1220, 1320, or any other conductivepathway define herein. The conductive pathways 1520 are seamlessly andcontinuously knitted to the electrodes 1510 using conductive yarn. Theconductive pathways 1520 extend from the skin facing portion 1502 intothe outer portion 1504 and are seamlessly and continuously knitted tothe connector regions 1530. In this manner, the electrodes 1510 can bein electrical communication with the connector region 1530 via theconductive pathways 1520. The conductive pathways 1520 can beelectrically insulated from the skin of the user and the outsideenvironment by laminating or otherwise coating with an insulatingmaterial such as, for example, heat sealed adhesive, insulatingmembrane, polymers, plastic, mica, etc.

The connector regions 1530 are seamlessly and continuously knitted intothe outer portion 1504 and coupled to the conductive pathways 1520 asdescribed herein. While not shown, a connector, as described withrespect to the system 100, 1100, 1200, 1300, or any other systemdescribed herein, can be coupled to each connector region 1530. Theconnectors can be configured to couple the connector regions 1530 to aconnector assembly, for example, the connector assembly 160, or anyother connector assembly described herein. The connector regions 1530can be substantially similar to the connector regions 130, 1130, 1230,1330, or any other connector region described herein and are therefore,not described in further detail herein.

In some embodiment, the connector regions 1530 can include openingsconfigured to receive the connector. In such embodiments, the connectorscan be electrically coupled to the conductive pathways 1520, forexample, using mechanical coupling or a conductive adhesive.

In some embodiments, a textile-based electrode system can besubstantially tubular. Referring now to FIG. 10, a textile-basedelectrode system 1600 includes a skin facing portion 1602 and an outerportion 1604. The skin facing portion 1602 includes a first electrode1610 a, a second electrode 1610 b, a third electrode 1610 c(collectively referred to as “the electrodes 1610”), and at least aportion of a first conductive pathway 1620 a, a second conductivepathway 1620 b, and a third conductive pathway 1620 c (collectivelyreferred to as “the conductive pathways 1620”). The outer portion 1604extends from the skin facing portion 1602 and includes a first connectorregion 1630 a, a second connector region 1630 b, a third connectorregion 1630 c, a fourth connector region 1630 d, a fifth connectorregion 1630 e (collectively referred to as “the connector regions1630”), and at least a portion of the conductive pathways 1620, whichextend from the skin facing portion 1602 into the outer portion 1604.

The skin facing portion 1602 and the outer portion 1604 can be formedfrom a non-conductive material, for example, any of the materialsdescribed with respect to the first fabric layer included in thetextile-based electrode system 100. Furthermore, the skin facing portion1602 can be continuously formed with the outer portion 1604 (e.g.,seamlessly coupled). As shown in FIG. 10, each of the skin facingportion 1602 and the outer portion 1604 are substantially tubular.Furthermore, the skin facing portion 1602 and the outer portion 1604 arecontinuously formed such that no seams or stitches, seams, or adhesiveare used to form the tubular textile-based electrode system 1600. Theskin facing portion 1602 is configured to be folded about a fold line1603 such that the skin facing portion 1602 overlaps the outer portion1604 and is configured to contact the skin of the user during use. Thesystem 1600 can include one or more stitches configured to couple theskin facing portion 1602 to the outer portion 1604, such that skinfacing portion 1602 remains proximate to the outer portion 1604 duringuse. The electrodes 1610 can be continuously and seamlessly knitted intothe skin facing portion 1602. The electrodes 1610 can be formed from aconductive material, for example, conductive yarn. The electrodes 1610can be substantially similar to the electrode 110, 1110, 1210, 1310, orany other electrode described herein and are therefore, not described infurther detail herein. The electrodes 1610 are configured to contact theskin of the user and sense an electrical signal corresponding to one ormore physiological parameters of the user. In some embodiments, apadding member can be disposed on the skin facing portion 1602 behindthe electrodes 1610. The padding member can be formed from any suitablematerial such as, for example, rubbery foam, a sponge, memory foam, a3-D knitted porous fabric, any other suitable material or combinationthereof. The padding member can be configured to urge the electrodetowards the skin of the user. In some embodiments, the electrodes 1610can be spaced equally around the circumference of the tubular skinfacing portion 1602, for example, by at least about 10 cms, about 11cms, 12 cms, 13 cms, 14 cms, 15 cms, 16 cms, 17 cms, 18 cms, 19 cms, orat least about 20 cms. This can allow design flexibility and enhance thequality of the measured electrical signals. While shown as includingthree electrodes 1610, any number of electrodes can be included in theskin facing portion 1602, for example, 2, 4, 5, 6 or even more.

The conductive pathways 1620 can be substantially similar to theconductive pathway 120, 1120, 1220, 1320, or any other conductivepathway described herein. The conductive pathways 1620 are seamlesslyand continuously knitted to the electrodes 1610 using conductive yarn.The conductive pathways 1620 extend from the skin facing portion 1602into the outer portion 1604 and are seamlessly and continuously knittedto the connector regions 1630. In this manner, the electrodes 1610 canbe in electrical communication with the connector region 1630 via theconductive pathways 1620. The conductive pathways 1620 can beelectrically insulated from the skin of the user and the outsideenvironment by laminating or otherwise coating with an insulatingmaterial such as, for example, heat sealed adhesive, insulatingmembrane, polymers, plastic, mica, etc. In some embodiments, each of theconducting pathways 1620 can have a width of about 0.2 cm to about 2cms, for example, about 0.4 cm, about 0.6 cm, about 0.8 cm, about 1 cm,about 1.2 cm about 1.4 cm, about 1.6 cm, or about 1.8 cm. In someembodiments, each of the conducting pathways 1620 can have a width ofabout 0.5 cm to about 1 cm.

The connector regions 1630 are disposed in the outer portion 1604. Theconnector regions 1630 are seamlessly and continuously knitted into theouter portion and coupled to the conductive pathways 1620 as describedherein. While not shown, a connector, as described with respect to thesystem 100, 1100, 1200, 1300, or any other system described herein, canbe coupled to each connector region 1630. The connectors can beconfigured to couple the connector regions 1630 to a connector assembly,for example, the connector assembly 160, or any other connector assemblydescribed herein. The connector regions 1630 can be substantiallysimilar to the connector regions 130, 1130, 1230, 1330, or any otherconnector region described herein, and therefore not described infurther detail herein. While shown as including five connector regions1630, any number of connecting regions can be included in the system1600, for example, 2, 3, 4, 6, or even more. Furthermore, while shown asbeing arranged in a semi-circular array, the connecting regions 1630 canbe included in any suitable configuration in the outer portion, forexample, circular, elliptical, square, polygonal, triangular,asymmetric, etc.

In some embodiment, the connector regions 1630 can include openingsconfigured to receive the connector. In such embodiments, the connectorscan be electrically coupled to the conductive pathways 1620, forexample, using mechanical coupling or a conductive adhesive.

In some embodiments, a textile-based electrode system can include a twolayer band. Referring now to FIGS. 11A and 11B, a textile-basedelectrode system 1700 includes a skin facing portion 1702 and an outerportion 1704. The skin facing portion 1702 includes a first electrode1710 a, a second electrode 1710 b, a third electrode 1710 c(collectively referred to as “the electrodes 1710”), and at least aportion of a first conductive pathway 1720 a, a second conductivepathway 1720 b, and a third conductive pathway 1720 c (collectivelyreferred to as “the conductive pathways 1720”). The outer portion 1704extends from the skin facing portion 1702 and includes a first connectorregion 1730 a, a second connector region 1730 b, a third connectorregion 1730 c, a fourth connector region 1730 d, a fifth connectorregion 1730 e (collectively referred to as “the connector regions1730”), and at least a portion of the conductive pathways 1720 whichextend from the skin facing portion 1702 to the outer portion 1704. Asshown in FIGS. 11A and 11B the system 1700 is substantially circular andcan be included in any textile or garment, for example, a band, a shirt,a jersey, a vest, a bra, or any other wearable textile, such that thesystem 1700 can be used to measure one or more physiological parametersof a user.

The skin facing portion 1702 and the outer portion 1704 can be formedfrom a non-conductive material, for example, any of the materialsdescribed with respect to the first fabric layer included in thetextile-based electrode system 100. Furthermore, the skin facing portion1702 can be continuously formed with the outer portion 1704 (e.g.,seamlessly coupled). The skin facing portion 1702 is folded over theouter portion 1704 such that the skin facing portion 1702 completelyoverlaps the outer portion 1704 and the system 1700 is a circular band.The system 1700 can include one or more stitches configured to couplethe skin facing portion 1702 to the outer portion 1704, such that skinfacing portion 1702 remains proximate to the outer portion 1704 duringuse.

The electrodes 1710 can be continuously and seamlessly knitted into theskin facing portion 1702. The electrodes 1710 can be formed from aconductive material, for example, conductive yarn. The electrodes 1710can be substantially similar to the electrode 110, 1110, 1210, 1310, orany other electrode described herein and are therefore, not described infurther detail herein. The electrodes 1710 are configured to contact theskin of the user and sense an electrical signal corresponding to one ormore physiological parameters of the user during use. The electrodes1710 can be disposed along the tubular skin facing portion 1702 with apredetermined spacing so as to capture biological signals from the userfrom different locations of the skins of the user. For example, in someembodiments, the electrodes 1710 can be disposed such that theelectrodes are proximate to and/or aligned with the main organs of theuser such as, for example, the heart and the lungs, during use. Whileshown as including three electrodes 1710, any number of electrodes canbe included in the skin facing portion 1702, for example, 2, 4, 5, 6 oreven more, as described with respect to the electrodes 1310 included inthe system 1300. In some embodiments, the second electrode 1710 b andthe third electrode 1710 c can be the sensing electrodes, and the firstelectrode 1710 a can be a ground electrode. In some embodiments, afourth electrode can be disposed in the skin facing portion 1702proximal to the electrode 1710 a. In some embodiments, the fourthelectrode can be coupled to the first electrode 1710 a and/or extendfrom the first electrode 1710 a. In such embodiments, the fourthelectrode can be configured to reduce background noise and thereby,improve signal quality. In some embodiments, a padding member can bedisposed on the skin facing portion 1702 behind the electrodes 1710. Thepadding member can be formed from any suitable material such as, forexample, rubbery foam, a sponge, memory foam, a 3-D knitted porousfabric (e.g., a 3-D knitted mesh or 3-D spacer knit), any other suitablematerial or combination thereof.

The conductive pathways 1720 can be substantially similar to theconductive pathway 120, 1120, 1220, 1320, or any other conductivepathway define herein. The conductive pathways 1720 are seamlessly andcontinuously knitted to the electrodes 1710, for example, usingconductive yarn. The conductive pathways 1720 extend from the skinfacing portion 1702 into the outer portion 1704 and are seamlessly andcontinuously knitted to the connector regions 1730. In this manner, theelectrodes 1710 can be in electrical communication with the connectorregion 1730 via the conductive pathways 1720. The conductive pathways1720 can be electrically insulated from the skin of the user and theoutside environment by laminating or otherwise coating with aninsulating material such as, for example, polymers, plastic, mica, etc.

The connector regions 1730 are disposed in the outer portion 1704. Theconnector regions 1730 are seamlessly and continuously knitted into theouter portion and coupled to the conductive pathways 1720 as describedherein. While not shown, a connector, as described with respect to thesystem 100, 1100, 1200, 1300, or any other system described herein, canbe coupled to each connector region 1730. The connectors can beconfigured to couple the connector regions 1730 to a connector assembly,for example, the connector assembly 160, or any other connector assemblydescribed herein. The connector regions 1730 can be substantiallysimilar to the connector regions 130, 1130, 1230, 1330, or any otherconnector region described herein, and therefore not described infurther detail herein.

In some embodiment, the connector regions 1730 can include openingsconfigured to receive the connector. In such embodiments, the connectorscan be electrically coupled to the conductive pathways 1720, forexample, using mechanical coupling or a conductive adhesive.

While shown as including seamlessly knitted electrodes, conductivepathways, and connector regions, any of the systems 1300, 1400, 1500,1600, or 1700 can be formed similar to the systems 1100 and 1200described herein. For example, in some embodiments, any of the systems1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, or 1700 can include electrodes, conductivepathways, and/or connector regions that are disposed in separateportions, for example, a first fabric portion, a second fabric portion,and a third fabric portion respectively. In such embodiments, theelectrodes and the conductive pathways can be electrically isolated fromeach other in an unfolded configuration in which the fabric portions arenot folded. The electrodes, conductive pathways, and/or connectorregions can be configured to be electrically coupled to each other in afolded configuration in which the fabric portions are folded. Forexample, in a partially folded configuration, the first fabric portioncan be folded about a first fold axis or fold line and disposed adjacentto the second fabric portion such that the conductive pathways can beelectrically coupled to the electrodes, for example, using conductiveyarn. In the folded configuration, the second fabric portion can befolded about a second fold axis or fold line such that the first fabricportion is adjacent to the third fabric portion and disposed between thethird fabric portion and the second fabric portion. Furthermore, theconductive pathways can be configured to be electrically coupled withthe connector regions (e.g., connector regions that include conductiveportions) or connectors disposed in opening defined by the connectorregions.

In some embodiments, the system 1700 or any other system describedherein can be included in a wearable garment. Referring now to FIGS. 12Aand 12B, in some embodiments, a wearable garment 10 can include thetextile-based electrode system 1700, a top fabric portion 1782 and abottom fabric portion 1784. As shown in FIG. 12A, a top edge 1706 of thesystem 1700 can be coupled to the top fabric portion 1782 which isconfigured to contact the upper torso of a user during use. The topfabric portion 1782 and the bottom fabric portion 1784 can be formedfrom a non-conductive material and can be substantially similar to thematerial used to form the skin facing portion 1702 and the outer portion1704 of the system 1700. A bottom fabric portion 1784 can also becoupled to a bottom edge 1708 of the system 1700. In some embodiments,the bottom fabric portion 1784 can be disposed over the outer portion1704, for example, partially or completely overlapping the outer portion1704. In such embodiments, the bottom fabric portion can be coupled tothe top edge 1706 and/or the bottom edge 1708 of the system 1700. Thebottom fabric portion 1784 can be substantially tubular and configuredto contact a lower torso, for example, the midriff and or waist of theuser during use. In some embodiments, the system 1700 can be knittedtogether with the top fabric portion 1782, and the bottom fabric portion1784 can be coupled to the system 1700. In some embodiments, the bottomfabric portion 1784 can be knitted together with the system 1700 and thetop fabric portion 1782 can be coupled to the system 1700.

The top fabric portion 1782 and/or the bottom fabric portion 1784 can becoupled to the system 1700 using any suitable means such as, forexample, stitching, sewing, gluing, hot wire press, high frequencywelding, ultrasonic welding, any other suitable coupling method orcombination thereof. In this manner, the system 1700 or any other systemdescribed herein can be included in a wearable garment or textile. Asshown herein, the wearable garment 10 can be a vest or a sports braconfigured to measure one or more physiological parameters of the useras described herein. In some embodiments, the top fabric portion 1782can include sleeves such that the wearable garment 10 can be a shirt, at-shirt, or a jersey. In some embodiments, a cover layer, for example, apocket, a sleeve, or a compartment can be included in the top fabricportion 1782 or the bottom fabric portion 1784. The cover layer can beconfigured to house, hide or otherwise conceal at least a portion of aconnector assembly configured to be coupled to the connectors andthereby, to be in electrical communication with the electrodes 1710.

As described herein, any of the textile-based electrode systemsdescribed herein, for example, the system 1100, 1200, 1300, 1700, or anyother textile-based electrode system described herein can includeconnectors electrically coupled to the conductive pathways and/orconnector regions included in the textile-based electrode systems.Referring now to FIG. 13, a textile based electrode system 1800 includesa skin facing portion 1802 and an outer portion 1804. The skin facingportion 1802 includes a plurality of electrodes 1810 and at least aportion of a plurality of conductive pathways 1820. The outer portion1804 extends from the skin facing portion 1802 and includes a pluralityof connectors 1840 coupled to the conductive pathways 1820 which extendfrom the skin facing portion 1802 into the outer portion 1804.

The skin facing portion 1802 and the outer portion 1804 can be formedfrom a non-conductive material, for example, any of the materialsdescribed with respect to the first fabric layer included in thetextile-based electrode system 100. Furthermore, the skin facing portion1802 can be continuously formed with the outer portion 1804 (e.g.,seamlessly coupled). The skin facing portion 1802 is folded over theouter portion 1804 such that the skin facing portion 1802 completelyoverlaps the outer portion 1804 and the system 1800 can be a circularband. The system 1800 can include one or more stitches configured tocouple the skin facing portion 1802 to the outer portion 1804, such thatskin facing portion 1802 remains proximate to the outer portion 1804during use.

The electrodes 1810 can be substantially similar to the electrodes 1710or any other electrode described herein, and are therefore not describedin further detail herein. The conductive pathways 1820 can besubstantially similar to the conductive pathway 120, 1120, 1220, 1320,or any other conductive pathway define herein. The conductive pathways1820 are seamlessly and continuously knitted to the electrodes 1810, forexample, using conductive yarn. The conductive pathways 1820 extend fromthe skin facing portion 1802 into the outer portion 1804. The connectors1840 can be disposed in the outer portion 1804, for example, in openingsdefined in the outer portion 1804 and can be configured to beelectrically coupled to the conductive pathways 1820 (e.g., usingmechanical coupling). In this manner, the electrodes 1810 can be inelectrical communication with the connectors 1840 via the conductivepathways 1820. The conductive pathways 1820 can be electricallyinsulated from the skin of the user and the outside environment bylaminating or otherwise coating with an insulating material such as, forexample, heat sealed adhesive, insulating membrane, polymers, plastic,mica, etc.

As shown in FIG. 13, the connectors 1840 include male snap or press-fitbutton connector configured to be coupled to a female snap or press-fitbutton connector receivers included in a connector assembly (e.g., theconnector assembly 160, or any other connector assembly describedherein). In some embodiments, any other connector can be used, forexample, pin-socket connector, a DIN connector, a banana connector, ahook connector, a magnetic connector, any other suitable connector or acombination thereof. The connectors 1840 can be configured to beremovably coupled to the connector receivers with sufficient force suchthat the connector assembly remains coupled to the connectors 1840during a user activity, for example, walking, jogging, running, dancing,sleeping, or any other activity. At the same time, the connectors 1840can be configured to uncouple from the connector receivers withsufficient ease such that the user does not exert excessive force touncouple the connector assembly from the connectors 1840 (e.g., toprevent excessive wear or tear of the outer portion 1804 of the system1800).

As described herein, a connector assembly can include connectorreceivers configured to be coupled to connectors included in a system,for example, the system 100, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700,1800 or any other system described herein to a processing module.Referring now to FIG. 14, in some embodiments, a connector assembly 1160can include a substrate 1162, an electrical circuit 1164, a firstconnector receiver 1166 a, a second connector receiver 1166 b, a thirdconnector receiver 1166 c, a fourth connector receiver 1166 d, and afifth connector receiver 1166 e (collectively referred to as the“connector receivers 1166”), and an electric cable 1168. The connectorassembly 1160 is configured to electrically couple to connectorsincluded in a textile-based electrode system (e.g., the system 100,1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800 or any other systemdescribed herein) such that a plurality of electrodes included in thesystem can be in electric communication with a processing module 1170.

The substrate 1162 can be an insulating substrate that can provide aflat surface on which the electric circuit 1164 and the connectorreceivers 1166 are disposed. The substrate can be formed from anysuitable electrically insulating and light weight material for example,plastics. The substrate can have an ergonomic shape such that theconnector assembly 1160 can be disposed on the system (e.g., any of thesystems described herein) without causing any discomfort to the userwhen the system is in use. While shown as being round, the substrate1162 can have any suitable shape such as, for example, square,rectangular, triangular, elliptical, oval, polygonal, any other suitableshape or combination thereof.

The electrical circuit 1164 is disposed on the substrate 1162 andconfigured to couple the connector receivers 1166 to the electrical lead1168. The electrical circuit 1164 can include a printed circuit that caninclude a plurality of electrodes. Each electrode of the plurality ofelectrodes can be configured to receive an electrical signal from asingle connector receiver 1166.

The connector receivers 1166 include female snap-fit or press fit buttonconnectors, configured to be removably coupled to male snap-fit or pressfit button connectors (e.g., the connectors 1840). In some embodiments,the connector receivers 1166 can include any male or female connectorreceiver, for example, a pin socket connector, a DIN connector, a bananaconnector, a hook connector, a magnetic connector, any other suitableconnector or combination thereof. As shown in FIG. 14, the connectorassembly includes five connector receivers 1166 disposed in asemi-circular array. In some embodiments, the first connector receiver1166 a can be configured to receive an electrical signal from a firstelectrode included in a textile-based electrode system that is disposedon a front portion of a torso of a user (e.g., the chest proximate tothe lungs). The second connector receiver 1166 b can be configured toreceive an electrical signal from a second electrode included in thesystem which is disposed near the bottom of the heart of the user (e.g.,on the chest or the back), and the third connector receiver 1166 c canbe configured to receive an electrical signal from a third electrodedisposed on the back of the user. Furthermore, the fourth connectorreceiver 1166 d and the fifth connector receiver 1166 e can beconfigured to receive electrical signals from a respiration sensor. Insuch embodiments, the respiration sensor can be included in the system(e.g., any of the systems described herein) or provided as a separatesystem.

In some embodiments, the connector assembly can include any number ofconnectors, for example, 2, 3, 4, 6, or even more, corresponding to thenumber of connectors included in a system which is configured to receivethe connector assembly 1166. Furthermore, the connector receivers 1166can be disposed in any suitable orientation or configurationcorresponding to the orientation or configuration of the connectorsincluded in the system (e.g., circular, elliptical, square, rectangular,triangular, asymmetric, etc.), such that the connector receivers 1166can be coupled to the connector receivers only in a preferredorientation. In this manner, any incorrect or misaligned coupling of theconnector receivers 1166 to the connectors can be prevented.

The electric cable 1168 includes a first end 1163 coupled to theelectric circuit and a second end 1165 coupled to the processing module1170. The electric cable 1168 can include a plurality of electrodesconfigured to receive an electrical signal from each of the connectorreceiver 1166 and communicate it to the processing module 1170.

The processing module 1170 can be configured to at least one of afilter, amplify, and/or measure an electrical signal. Furthermore, theprocessing module 1170 can be configured to communicate the signal datato an external device, for example, smart phone, a tablet, a computer, aremote server, a cloud server, or any other external device. Theprocessing module 1170 can be substantially similar to the processingmodule 170. In some embodiments, the electronic components included inthe processing module 1170 can be disposed in a sufficiently small andlight weight housing such that the processing module 1170 can bedisposed on a user (e.g., in a trouser, worn on an arm band, a thighband, a wrist band, worn on a belt, disposed in a shirt pocket or apocket of a system) without causing discomfort to the user or arestriction in movement during use. In some embodiments, the processingmodule 1170 can include a smart phone, or a mobile device.

FIG. 15 shows an electric circuit 1264 that can be included in aconnector assembly, for example, the connector assembly 1160 or anyother connector assembly described herein, according to an embodiment.The electric circuit 1264 includes a first connector receiver portion1261 a, a second connector receiver portion 1261 b, a third connectorreceiver portion 1261 c, a fourth connector receiver portion 1261 d, anda fifth connector receiver portion 1261 e (collectively referred to as“the connector receiver portions 1261”). A connector receiver, forexample, the connector receiver 1166 or any other connector receiverdescribed herein, can be fixedly disposed on each connector receiverportion 1261. Each connector receiver portion 1261 is served by anelectrode 1267. The connector receiver disposed on the connectorreceiver portion 1261 can be coupled to the electrode 1267 by a solder,a weld, a conductive adhesive, a conductive epoxy, or any other suitableelectrical coupling. The electrical circuit 1264 includes a couplingportion 1269 configured to be coupled to an electric cable, for example,the electrical cable 1168. While not shown, the electrical circuit 1264can include electronic components such as, for example, resistors,capacitors, amplifiers, inductors, any other electronic components orcombination thereof.

In some embodiments, a textile-based electrode system can include acover layer for covering, hiding or otherwise concealing at least aportion of a connector assembly. Referring now to FIGS. 16A and 16B, atextile-based electrode system 1900 includes a cover layer 1908. Thetextile-based electrode system 1900 can be substantially similar to anyof the systems described herein, for example, the system 100, 1100,1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, or any other system describedherein. As shown in FIG. 16A, the connector assembly 1160 (or any otherconnector assembly described herein) can be disposed on the system 1900,for example, coupled to connectors (e.g., the connectors 140, 1840, orany other connectors described herein) included in the system 1900. Oncethe connector assembly 1160 is disposed on the system 1900, the coverlayer 1908 can be urged to move or slide over the connector assembly1160 such that at least a portion of the connector assembly 1160 can becovered, hidden, or otherwise concealed by the cover layer 1908. In someembodiments, the cover layer 1908 can be a separate layer which can bepulled over the connector assembly 1160. In some embodiments, the coverlayer 1908 can include a pocket or a compartment.

FIG. 17 shows a schematic flow diagram of an exemplary method 2000 offorming a textile-based electrode system, for example, the system 100,1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800 or any other systemdescribed herein. The method 2000 includes knitting a first tubularportion including a conducting pathway 2002. The tubular portion can beknitted from a non-conductive material, for example, nylon, cotton,silk, ramie, polyester, latex, spandex, any other suitablenon-conductive yarn or combination thereof. The conductive pathway canbe continuously formed (e.g., seamlessly knit) with the first tubularportion. In some embodiments, the conductive pathway can be formed fromconductive yarn. The conductive pathway can be substantially similar tothe conductive pathway 120, 1120, 1220, 1320, or any other conductivepathway described herein. The method further includes knitting a secondtubular portion extending from the first tubular portion and includingan electrode 2004. The electrode can be continuously and seamlesslyformed with the second tubular portion. In some embodiments, theelectrode can be formed from conductive yarn. The electrode can besubstantially similar to the electrode 110, 1110, 1210, 1310, or anyother electrode described herein. A third tubular portion is knittedextending from the second tubular portion 2006. In some embodiments, thethird tubular portion can include a hole, an aperture, or otherwise anopening configured to receive a connector. In some embodiments, thethird tubular portion can include a connector region which can, forexample, include conductive portions formed from conductive yarn. Insuch embodiments, the connector region can be continuously andseamlessly formed with the third tubular region, for example, usingconductive yarn. The connector region can be configured to beelectrically coupled to the conductive pathway, for example, usingconductive yarn. In some embodiments, the first tubular portion, thesecond tubular portion, and the third tubular portion can becontinuously formed (e.g., seamlessly knitted) with each other. Thefirst tubular portion is folded over the second tubular portion along afirst fold line 2008. The conductive pathway is then electricallycoupled to the electrode 2010. In some embodiments, a first end of theconductive pathway is electrically coupled to the electrode. Forexample, the first end of the conductive pathway can be disposedadjacent to but not overlapping the electrode after folding the firsttubular portion. In such embodiments, the conductive pathway can beelectrically coupled to the electrode using, for example, conductiveyarn. The first tubular portion and the second tubular portion are thenfolded over the third tubular portion such that the first tubularportion is disposed between the second tubular portion and the thirdtubular portion 2012. The connector is disposed in the third fabricportion 2014. The connector can include any suitable connector such as,for example, a male snap-fit or press-fit button connector, or any otherconnector described herein. The conductive pathway is then electricallycoupled to the connector 2016. In some embodiments, a second end of theconductive pathway is electrically coupled to the connector. In suchembodiments, the conductive pathway can be electrically coupled to theconnector using any suitable means, for example, mechanical coupling,conductive adhesive or stitching with conductive yarn. In someembodiments, the first tubular portion is coupled to the second tubularportion after the first fold. Furthermore, the third tubular portion canbe coupled to the second tubular portion and to the first tubularportion adjacent the first fold line such that the first tubular portionand the second tubular portion remains folded over the third tubularportion during use. The tubular portions can be coupled using anysuitable means such as, for example, stitching, gluing, hot fusionbending, high frequency welding, ultrasonic welding, any other suitablecoupling method or combination thereof.

In some embodiments, a padding member can be disposed adjacent theelectrode between the first tubular portion and the second tubularportion. In some embodiments, the padding member can be disposed betweenthe first tubular portion and the third tubular portion. The paddingmember can be configured to urge the electrode towards the skin of theuser during user, for example, to maintain efficient contact between theelectrode and the skin of the user and improve signal quality. In someembodiments, the padding member can be disposed between the firsttubular portion and the second tubular portion before folding the firsttubular portion about the first fold line. The padding member can beformed from any suitable material, as described herein.

In some embodiments, an insulating member can be disposed between thefirst tubular portion and the second tubular portion. The insulatingmember can be configured to electrically and/or mechanically isolate theconductive pathway from the second tubular portion. In some embodiments,the insulating member can be a first insulating member and a secondinsulating member can be disposed between the second tubular portion andthe third tubular portion. The second insulating member can beconfigured to electrically and/or mechanically isolate the conductivepathway from the third tubular portion. In some embodiments, the firstand second insulating members can be disposed before folding the firsttubular portion over the second tubular portion along the first foldline. In some embodiments, the first insulating member can be disposedbefore folding the first tubular portion along the first fold line, andthe second insulating member can be disposed after folding the firsttubular portion along the first fold line. In some embodiments, thefirst and second insulating materials can include sheets or layers of aninsulating material disposed between the first and second tubularportions, and the second and third tubular portions respectively. Insome embodiments, the first and second insulating members can bedisposed by laminating or overprinting a suitable insulating material(e.g., a heat sealed adhesive, insulating member, polymer, plastic,fabric, mica, etc.) over the conductive pathway.

While various embodiments of the system, methods and devices have beendescribed above, it should be understood that they have been presentedby way of example only, and not limitation. Where methods and stepsdescribed above indicate certain events occurring in certain order,those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosurewould recognize that the ordering of certain steps may be modified andsuch modification are in accordance with the variations of theinvention. Additionally, certain of the steps may be performedconcurrently in a parallel process when possible, as well as performedsequentially as described above. The embodiments have been particularlyshown and described, but it will be understood that various changes inform and details may be made.

1. A textile-based electrode system, comprising: a first fabric layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface including a knitted electrode configured to be placed in contact with the skin of a user; a second fabric layer disposed and configured to contact the outer surface of the first fabric layer, the second fabric layer including a knitted conductive pathway configured to be electrically coupled to the knitted electrode; a third fabric layer disposed and configured to contact the second fabric layer; and a connector disposed on the third fabric layer and configured to be electrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the second fabric layer is folded about a first fold axis to place the second fabric layer in contact with the outer surface of the first fabric layer.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the third fabric layer is folded about a second fold axis to place the third fabric layer in contact with the second fabric layer.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein first fabric layer is coupled to the second fabric layer and the third fabric layer along at least one of the first fold axis and the second fold axis such that the second fabric layer and the third fabric layer are maintained in the folded state.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the third fabric layer defines an opening and the connector is at least partially disposed in the opening and coupled to the knitted conductive pathway.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the knitted electrode and the knitted conductive pathway include conductive yarn.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the third fabric layer includes a connector region configured to be electrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the first fabric layer is continuously formed with the second fabric layer.
 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the first fabric layer is continuously formed with the third fabric layer.
 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the knitted conductive pathway is electrically coupled to the knitted electrode using at least one of stitching, sewing, gluing, hot wire press, high frequency welding, and ultrasonic welding.
 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the knitted conductive pathway is electrically coupled to the knitted electrode with conductive yarn.
 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the connector is configured to electrically couple the knitted conductive pathway to a connector assembly.
 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the connector is configured to be removably coupled to the connector assembly.
 14. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrode is configured to measure at least one of a galvanic skin response (GSR), an electrocardiogram (ECG), a heart rate, a breathing rate, a breathing pattern, a rib cage perimeter, a rib cage volume, an electromyelogram, and a body temperature.
 15. A textile-based electrode system, comprising: a first fabric portion including a knitted conductive pathway; a second fabric portion coupled to the first fabric portion and including a knitted electrode configured to be placed in contact with the skin of a user, the second fabric portion folded over the first fabric portion along a first fold line such that the knitted electrode is configured to be electrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway; and a third fabric portion coupled to the second fabric portion and including a connector region, the third fabric portion folded over the first fabric portion along a second fold line such that (a) the connector region is configured to be coupled to the knitted conductive pathway, and (b) the first fabric portion is disposed between the second fabric portion and the third fabric portion.
 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the first fabric portion, the second fabric portion, and the third fabric portion are substantially tubular.
 17. The system of claim 15, wherein the first fabric portion, the second fabric portion, and the third fabric portion are formed seamlessly.
 18. The system of claim 15, wherein the knitted conductive pathway is coupled to at least one of the knitted electrode and the connector region using conductive yarn.
 19. The system of claim 15, further comprising: a stitch configured to couple the second fabric portion to the first fabric portion such that the second fabric portion remains folded about the first fold line during use.
 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the stitch is a first stitch, the system further comprising: a second stitch configured to couple the third fabric portion to the first fabric portion and the second fabric portion such that the third fabric portion remains folded about the second fold line during use.
 21. The system of claim 15, wherein the connector region defines an opening through which a connector can be disposed.
 22. The system of claim 15, wherein the connector region includes a conductive portion configured to be electrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway.
 23. A method of manufacturing a textile-based electrode system, the method comprising: knitting a first tubular portion, the first tubular portion including a conductive pathway; knitting a second tubular portion extending from the first tubular portion, the second tubular portion including an electrode; knitting a third tubular portion extending from the second tubular portion; folding the first tubular portion over the second tubular portion along a first fold line; electrically coupling the conductive pathway to the electrode; folding the first tubular portion and the second tubular portion over the third tubular portion along a second fold line such that the first tubular portion is disposed between the second tubular portion and the third tubular portion; disposing a connector on the third fabric portion; and electrically coupling the conductive pathway to the connector.
 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the first tubular portion, the second tubular portion, and the third tubular portion are knitted seamlessly.
 25. The method of claim 23, wherein conductive pathway and the electrode include a conductive yarn.
 26. The method of claim 23, wherein the electrode is electrically coupled to a first end of the conductive pathway.
 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the connector is electrically coupled to a second end of the conductive pathway.
 28. The method of claim 23, further comprising: coupling the first tubular portion to the second tubular portion after the first fold.
 29. The method of claim 28, further comprising: coupling the third tubular portion to the second tubular portion and to the first tubular portion adjacent the first fold line such that first tubular portion and the second tubular portion remain folded over the third tubular portion during use.
 30. The method of claim 23, further comprising: disposing a padding member adjacent the electrode between the first tubular portion and the second tubular portion, the padding member configured to urge the electrode toward the skin of the user during use.
 31. The method of claim 23, further comprising: disposing a padding member adjacent the electrode between the first tubular portion and the third tubular portion, the padding member configured to urge the electrode toward the skin of the user during use.
 32. The method of claim 23, further comprising: disposing an insulating member between the first tubular portion and the second tubular portion, the insulating member configured to at least one of electrically and mechanically isolate the conductive pathway from the second tubular portion.
 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the insulating member is a first insulating member, the method further comprising: disposing a second insulating member between the first tubular portion and the third tubular portion, the second insulating member configured to at least one of electrically and mechanically isolate the conductive pathway from the third tubular portion 